Hi, Lower Merion! 👋

The local dining scene continues to evolve with a handful of new eateries opening in the coming weeks and months. Also this week, former Main Line investment manager Scott Mason was sentenced to federal prison for stealing millions from his clients, Lower Merion School District’s former superintendent faces termination from his new job, and Nike is reportedly planning more Kobe Bryant tribute sneakers.

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Lower Merion’s culinary scene is continuing to evolve and expand, with five eateries on the way in the coming months.

The Brew Room, a new European-style coffee shop, is slated to open in Ardmore later this summer, and fast-casual seasonal eatery Dig Inn is debuting a location in Suburban Square soon.

Popular eatery Malvern Buttery is also expanding with a second outpost in Bryn Mawr later this year.

Check out the eateries coming soon to Lower Merion, as well as those that have recently opened.

💡 Community News

Former Main Line investment manager Scott Mason was sentenced yesterday to federal prison for swindling clients out of millions of dollars. He was also ordered to repay the $25 million he owes 17 former clients, but prosecution and defense lawyers agreed they are unlikely to get more than a fraction of that sum because it’s been spent.

Paoli/Thorndale is SEPTA’s second most-used Regional Rail line, which has left many puzzled as to why it’s being targeted for potential closure. The Inquirer’s Erin Reynolds breaks down why it’s on the chopping block in this video.

Central Bucks School District’s school board has moved to fire Superintendent Steven Yanni, a former LMSD superintendent, amid allegations that students in a special education classroom in an elementary school were abused by a teacher. Central Bucks hired Yanni last year after he served as Lower Merion School District’s superintendent for less than a year.

Narberth resident Joseph Riga, 61, died after being struck by a driver on Saturday while riding his bicycle in Lancaster. (Penn Live)

Office dress codes are becoming increasingly relaxed, with the founder and CEO of one Ardmore business likening his approach to “you be you” around the office. For client meetings, there’s still an expectation of polished dressing, though.

Nike is reportedly releasing additional sneakers that pay tribute to Kobe Bryant. Two new Air Force 1 editions in Lower Merion school colors could come next spring. (House of Heat)

Bryn Mawr resident Michael Rubin recently sat down with Yahoo! Sports to discuss his popular sportswear brand, Fanatics, and how he’s grown it over the years.

America’s pastime has surprisingly local roots. Former Bala Cynwyd resident, Ben Shibe, helped create modern baseballs and baseball stadiums. Main Line Today recently delved into the history.

Last month, a nonprofit called A Better Chance in Lower Merion held a gala to raise funds and celebrate more than 50 years of helping students of color pursue their educational goals. WHYY recently caught up with a past participant and current board member about his experience.

The Kaiserman JCC in Penn Wynne has launched a soccer league geared toward, but not exclusively for, Jewish families. When it begins in September, games and practices will be held on Sundays so that those observing the Sabbath can participate. Sign-ups are now open. (Philadelphia Jewish Exponent)

🏫 Schools Briefing

🍽️ On our Plate

🎳 Things to Do

🥽 Pool Party Shabbat: Kick off the weekend with a pool party complete with games, crafts, music, and dinner. ⏰ Friday, June 27, 5-8 p.m. 💵 Free 📍 Kaiserman JCC

🌿 Horticultural Therapy Workshop: Create your own kitchen herb garden in a relaxing setting. ⏰ Friday, June 27, 6:30-8 p.m. 💵 $45 📍 Plant4Good

🎵 Bryn Mawr Twilight Concert: Six artists headline this week’s event. ⏰ Friday, June 27, 7 p.m. 💵 $24.84 📍 Bryn Mawr Gazebo

🎧 Echoes: The American Pink Floyd: Hear a tribute band perform Pink Floyd’s Wish You Were Here album 50 years after it was released. ⏰ Friday, June 27, 8 p.m. 💵 $26.91-$61.07 📍 Ardmore Music Hall

🎶 Summer Serenade with Reggie Mobley: The international countertenor will perform in the gardens. ⏰ Saturday, June 28, 7 p.m. 💵 $15-$100 📍 Stoneleigh

🤖 The Wild Robot: Catch the 2024 animated film about a robot stranded after a shipwreck during next week’s Family Movie Monday. ⏰ Monday, June 30, 2-4 p.m. 💵 Free 📍 Bala Cynwyd Library

🎥 Inside Out 2: Monday Movie Night at Penn Wynne next week features the sequel to the popular 2015 Disney Pixar film. ⏰ Monday, June 30, 6-8 p.m. 💵 Free 📍 Penn Wynne Library

💎 Melted Crayon Jewelry: Kids in fifth grade and up can create unique jewelry. ⏰ Wednesday, July 2, 4:30-5:30 p.m. 💵 Free 📍 Penn Wynne Library

🦸 Captain America: Brave New World: Teens ages 13-18 can catch the new Marvel flick. ⏰ Wednesday, July 2, 6:30-8:30 p.m. 💵 Free 📍 Bala Cynwyd Library

🏡 On the Market

A midcentury modern home with a Zen garden

Built in 1957, this midcentury modern home in Villanova has a professionally designed Japanese Zen garden in a central courtyard. Japanese influences can also be found throughout the house. The three-bedroom home’s family room features a stepped ceiling and central skylight, while its primary suite has a large soaking tub under another skylight and has direct courtyard access. The home has a potential fourth bedroom or flex space across the courtyard or in a finished lower level that has a full bathroom. Other features include a kitchen with high-end appliances and a half basketball court.

Price: $1.15M | Size: 3,442 SF | Acreage: 0.74

Have you seen an interesting listing in or around Lower Merion? Share it with us in an email to lowermerion@inquirer.com.

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